WhatsApp may soon introduce a new customization feature for iOS users. According to the feature tracker, the instant messaging platform has now started shipping a chat theme feature that will allow them to choose from multiple color options and chat backgrounds to add variety to their messaging experience. The feature was first spotted in August when the Meta-owned platform was said to still be working on it. Some users have reportedly seen this feature on their devices. It was said to be limited edition at the time, but more users could get it in the coming weeks.

WhatsApp might introduce a chat theme for iOS users

According to WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo, the chat theme was spotted in the WhatsApp iOS 24.20.71 update on the App Store. While for most users the feature didn’t add anything significant, the feature tracker claims that some users have spotted the new in-app chat topic feature. A screenshot of the interface has also been shared.

WhatsApp chat theme
Photo credit: WABetaInfo

Based on the screenshot, the new chat theme customization option allows users to play with two elements. The first is the chat color, which includes the colors of the bubbles, the area below the text field, and the header area. The second is the chat background, which is the area where text messages appear.

The feature tracker pointed out that there are 20 color options for the chat that include plenty of popular pastel colors and 22 backgrounds that include unique designs and patterns. WhatsApp users on iOS can select a single chat topic across all chats or select specific topics for specific contacts, according to the post. It is not clear whether users can add external wallpapers or not.

However, it said that unlike Instagram DMs, adding a chat topic will not be reflected on the recipient’s end. So this is purely a feature on the device and all users can choose the chat topic of their choice without imposing the choice on other users.